Tooth Whitening Products and Procedures for a Whiter Smile

Posted February 19, 2016.

It’s not uncommon for your teeth to dull and stain due to the natural processes of aging, consuming dark food and drinks or tobacco use. This drives many people to explore their tooth whitening options. How deeply your teeth are stained as well as the underlying cause will determining which whitening products or procedures will be called for to whiten your smile.

It’s a good idea to talk to your dentist before starting a new whitening regimen. They are trained to help you find the right products and procedures to whiten your smile, while preserving your long term oral health.

Many people like to include whitening toothpaste in their oral hygiene routine. This a simple way to reduce minor surface stains on tooth enamel. However, the concentration of peroxide whitening agents is only strong enough to deal with minor stains. Moderate to deeply stained teeth will require stronger measures.

Whitening strips are convenient to use. You simply apply them to your teeth in for half an hour at a time. You will need to avoid eating, drinking and using tobacco while wearing them. Unfortunately, just like whitening toothpaste they are only strong enough to brighten minor stains.

Dental bleaching gel is available over the counter and has the stronger concentrations of whitening agents than toothpaste or strips. A small amount of gel is poured into a set of bleaching trays then held in your mouth. The concentration of whitening agents can brighten moderate stains.

If you have deeply stained teeth you should talk to your dentist about a dental tooth bleaching procedure. The concentration of bleaching agents in this procedure make it the most effective way to get a bright white smile.

If you would like to explore your whitening options, please call us at 203.775.6167 to schedule an appointment.